Support Ciara's Urgent Car Repair Needs

Hi friends and family,

It feels very vulnerable posting and asking for help, but I also know that there are so many people willing to who don't even know I may need it. In my time in Philly I have done so much intentional community building, and I know part of that community building is asking for what I need alongside giving. My car urgently needs repairs that I simply can't afford right now. Despite my best efforts, including taking on multiple jobs, I've struggled to catch up and cover the costs incurred during that time.

Around this time last year I was unexpectedly laid off from my job with two days notice and no severance. My boss could no longer afford me and waited to inform me of such, leaving me in a difficult position. I felt like my energy reserves were depleted. On top of this, my ADHD makes certain tasks, like job searching, incredibly challenging. Losing my job also meant losing access to medications that help me manage my condition effectively. This compounded my financial strain and made it harder to keep up with everyday expenses. It's left me feeling stuck.

Since this time I have gotten two more jobs, at a grand total of three. I have been trying to catch up and pay back the debt I have accrued in this time, leaving me without the means to fix my car. I need a new catalytic converter, a pretty expensive part, but not the only expensive problem. Since I need this part my car will not pass inspections that are necessary in the state of PA. Without passed inspections I am susceptible to PPA tickets in Philly, even in my own parking zone. (If you have never dealt with the PPA consider yourself blessed). These tickets now have fines stacked on top of them that I simply cannot afford.

As the problem continues to grow I feel less able to effectively manage it, so I am asking for help. Recently, my car started jolting while driving, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

I've managed to save a few hundred dollars toward this, and had some very kind help from a few close friends, but it is not enough. That's why I'm turning to you all. Your contributions would help me get my car fixed so I can continue working. Public transportation isn't an option for two out of my three jobs, as I need to transport equipment.

I also want to provide clarification, even though I know some of you won't question it, that in recent months any "fun" activities I've been able to do have been thanks to the help of my friends, and I am incredibly grateful for their support. These are not luxuries I could afford on my own currently, and I think it's important to provide this context. I'm not neglecting my responsibilities to pursue things I can't afford right now.

If you took the time to read this, thank you. I was not sure how much to ask for, but I am thankful for any help and it will be put toward helping to get myself out of this rut, so that I can hopefully get ahead again and have the tools to. If you cannot donate, a share is always helpful and means a lot to me. I understand times are tough for many, and I appreciate any support you can offer. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and consider helping, it is incredibly appreciated.

Ciara